The European Animal Research Association (EARA) and Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin - in collaboration with the Max-Delbrück-Centrum für Molekulare Medizin (MDC) and Freie Universität Berlin - invite you to discuss how to improve openness in communications about animal research with the general public, political decision-makers, and opinion formers in Germany.

This workshop is offered to those working in the life sciences sector and is designed to support researchers, communications staff and institutions that wish to be more open about the animal research they carry out. The focal theme of the workshop is to discuss why scientists, researchers, press officers and other stakeholders can and should talk about animal research while also considering and discussing alternatives. Non-Animal models (NAMs) - which include technologies like in vitro cell cultures, organoids, organ-on-a-chip systems, and computer modelling - can complement or replace traditional animal research, reducing reliance on animal testing and advancing biomedical science.

While public debate on animal research has been on the rise in various European countries and research institutions, there is still significant reluctance within many academic institutions, and amongst scientists, towards conducting a more open and consistent dialogue with the public. Many scientists are still afraid that speaking more openly about their research and their motivations will make them targets, while others lack the confidence to put the case for animal research to what they view as a sceptical public and a potentially hostile media.

The discussion is relevant for members of institutions that are involved in animal research - directly or indirectly - and are currently hesitant to speak out in the media or to participate in public engagement activities. We hope that this workshop, and those hosted by EARA in other countries, will help to kickstart a cultural change and support research institutions to handle this issue constructively.

A certificate of attendance will be available after the event. Hear from the leaders in the field of research and communication about the need for greater openness and transparency about animal research in Germany.

SPEAKERS

Kirk Leech (Executive Director, EARA)
Michael Gotthardt (Max-Delbrück-Centrum für Molekulare Medizin)
Andreas Lengeling (Max-Planck-Gesellschaft)
Sascha Karberg (Der Tagesspiegel)

Schedule

12:00-12:30 - Registration
12:30-14:15 - Presentations (20min per speaker + 5 min questions)
14:15-14:45 - Coffee Break
14:45-16:00 - Panel Discussion: with speakers, Christa Thöne-Reineke (Freie Universität Berlin) and Nuno Miguel Gonçalves (EARA) - moderator
16:00-16:30 - Networking Session

This is an in-person event only.

Venue information: Konrad-Cohn-Hörsaal, Virchowweg 24, Campus Charité Mitte

Improving Openness in Animal Research in Germany